Nawaz Ahmed
With half of the global population under 30, a figure expected to rise to 57% by 2030, the significance of youth involvement in global issues cannot be overstated. This demographic shift, with more than half of the world’s population projected to be under 30 by 2030, has profound implications for politics, economics, and social dynamics.
Despite the challenges facing the world, a recent survey revealed that 67% of people believe in a better future, with the most optimistic group being 15 to 17-year-olds. This data Underscores the resilience and positive outlook of the younger generation, who are poised to shape the future in significant ways.
The majority of people agree that the age balance in politics is wrong. More than two-thirds (69%) of people across all age groups agree that more opportunities for younger people to have a say in policy development/change would make political systems better. There is a growing consensus among the global population that the current age balance in politics is skewed. The overwhelming majority of individuals, spanning various age groups, express the view that empowering the younger generation to actively participate in policy development and change is integral to improving political systems. This sentiment reflects a recognition of the untapped potential and perspectives that young voices can contribute to shaping a more inclusive and effective governance structure.
Globally, only 2.6% of parliamentarians are under 30 years old, and less than 1% of these young MPs are women. Despite the significant proportion of the global population being under 30, the representation of young voices in formal decision-making bodies such as parliaments remains disproportionately low. This is not just a statistic, but a call to action. The stark gender disparity, with less than 1% of young parliamentarians being women, underscores the urgent need to address the underrepresentation of youth, particularly young women, in political leadership roles. It’s time to ensure that diverse perspectives and experiences are reflected in policymaking and governance.
In conclusion, the prominence of the younger demographic in the global population presents both opportunities and challenges for various societal domains. As we approach 2030, efforts to empower and integrate the perspectives of the younger generation in shaping the future trajectory of our world are imperative for fostering inclusive, sustainable, and effective governance and policymaking.
In 1999, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted resolution 54/120, which marked a significant milestone in the recognition of youth-related issues on the global agenda. This resolution formally endorsed the recommendation put forth by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, which had taken place in Lisbon from 8-12 August 1998. It called for the declaration of 12 August as International Youth Day, serving as a testament to the international community’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing young people. This decision aimed to amplify the promotion and dissemination of the World Programme of Action for Youth, a pivotal framework that outlined strategies for addressing the needs and issues concerning young people.
International Youth Day, observed annually on 12 August, is an occasion that garners attention and mobilizes action around youth-related matters. The Focal Point on Youth, in partnership with youth organizations and members of the UN Inter-Agency Network in Youth Development, diligently selects a theme for the Day. This theme selection process, driven by the voices and concerns of young people globally, ensures that the commemoration is meaningful and aligned with their current concerns and priorities. Moreover, the Focal Point on Youth spearheads the organization of a virtual commemoration of the Day, employing innovative and inclusive approaches to engage youth from diverse backgrounds. This commemoration provides a platform for young people to voice their perspectives, share experiences, and showcase their contributions to society, thereby empowering them to be the architects of their own future. Furthermore, the International Youth Day Programme actively encourages and empowers youth around the world to spearhead activities that raise awareness about the multifaceted realities and challenges faced by young people in their respective countries. This initiative aims to mobilize youth-led efforts to address pressing issues, foster dialogue, and advocate for meaningful change at local, national, and global levels.
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The theme for International Youth Day in 2024 is ‘From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.’ This theme is not just a slogan, it’s a call to action. The increasing digitalization of our world presents unparalleled opportunities to expedite sustainable development. Digital technologies, such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence, play a crucial role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The data derived from digital interactions supports evidence-based decision-making and has a profound impact across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Digital technologies and data contribute to at least 70% of the SDG targets, with the potential to reduce the cost of achieving these goals by up to USD 55 trillion. This potential is not just a possibility, it’s a promise of a brighter future.
Young people are not just users of digital technology, they are at the forefront of digital adoption and innovation. In 2022, three-quarters of those aged 15 to 24 were using the internet, surpassing other age groups. This is a testament to the digital prowess of the youth. Despite this progress, disparities persist, especially in low-income countries and among young women, who often have less access to the internet and digital skills compared to their male counterparts. Therefore, there is an urgent need to enhance digital inclusion. However, it is important to recognize that youth are often referred to as ‘digital natives,’ adept at using technology to instigate change and develop solutions. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the role of young people in digital innovation is not just important, it’s crucial for addressing global issues.
Recognizing and celebrating the digital contributions of youth will inspire further innovation and collaboration, thereby propelling progress towards achieving sustainable development. By acknowledging the digital prowess of young people, we can encourage and foster more significant strides in innovative solutions and collaborative efforts towards fulfilling the SDGs.
